Yngwie Malmsteen

Yngwie Malmsteen is arguably the most influential classical
metal guitarist of the 80's and 90's.
Though he was already well known in Europe in the early 80's with
his Rising Force project, he didn't really get worldwide acclaim
until he collaborated with Ron Keel (who later went to found his
band, Keel) on a short-lived project called
Steeler,
and then followed that with a stint in Alkatrazz before going solo.
Detractors may criticize his songs-written-just-for-soloing
style, but his musical and technical talents are unparalleled.
The numerous people who have played on an Yngwie album comprise
a virtual all-star lineup in the field of hard rock/metal.